Recognising the exceptional: Forward Staff & Volunteer Awards 2025
Around 70 staff, volunteers, managers, and trustees gathered at The Old Library, Birmingham, where 7 awards for a range of achievements were presented to an incredibly worthy selection of winners. It was an amazing day full of celebration for those who go above and beyond in their roles at Forward.
Each category received dozens of nominations, which had been whittled down to a final three by an internal panel of senior managers. The long list of nominations is a testament to the brilliant staff we have across the organisation at Forward – the judging panel’s job was not easy at all. Each finalist was invited to the event today in recognition of their incredible achievements.
Before the award ceremony began, Lisa Bryer, Trustee of The Forward Trust and award-winning film producer, delivered a motivational talk to those in attendance. She discussed her relationship with Forward, her own lived experience of addiction, and the need for staff in these difficult roles. Addressing the nominees, Lisa said:
“Kindness is what you all do every day. You’re helping people who really need the help, and doing it with kindness. You choose to work with individuals who are at rock bottom, and become the person who can help to free them. You all become the people who can change their lives. I’m honoured to be a part of an organisation that has staff leading with kindness, dedication, and team spirit, every single day.”
Lisa left the whole room feeling inspired – it was a great introduction to a wonderful day!
Mike Trace, Chief Executive Officer of Forward, welcomed staff and volunteers to the awards and surprised staff with a video message from the Chair of Trustees, Tony Adams, thanking the finalists for all of their hard work. Trustee David Bernstein also reiterated a similar message. Speaking to the room, Tony said:
“Every single day, you make a real difference in people’s lives, offering hope and support to those who need it the most. Today, we take a moment to say thank you. The impact you have is truly inspiring, and we can’t wait to see what you can achieve in the year ahead. Congratulations to all the nominees and winners.”
Members of the judging panel presented the awards and gave a lovely speech about each of the finalists. The winners from each category were awarded a trophy and invited to take to the stage for a short presentation. After the awards finished, Mike took to the stage again to thank everyone for coming. Staff and volunteers were then treated to a delicious lunch and had the opportunity to celebrate with each other.
On the awards, Mike shared:
“The huge number of nominations is a testament to our staff and volunteers across the organisation. We at The Forward Trust are there for people who are struggling, believe in them, inspire them, and help them to achieve their potential. The people in the room today are exemplary examples of that. Thank you to everyone for travelling down and celebrating with us – let’s keep the momentum going.”
We are incredibly grateful to all of our staff and volunteers for the hard work and passion each and every one of them delivers in their respective roles. We can’t wait for the future and to see what great things are achieved over the next 12 months.
Full list of winners and finalists:
Richard Stephenson Award
Winner: Chantell Gell
Finalists: Daniel White, Anya Sparkes
Volunteer of the Year
Winner: Angie Reddington
Finalists: Tam Jordan, Neil Townend
Innovation and Impact
Winner: Surrey Prisons Counselling Team
Finalists: Selena McMahon-Loome, Claire Pulman
Outstanding Team
Winner: SM Regional Management Team
Finalists: Essex RECONNECT, Thurrock Drug & Alcohol Services
Rising Star
Winner: Calum Smith
Finalists: Charlotte Templeton, Carrie Williams
Partnership & Collaboration
Winner: Tara Moore
Finalists: Tracy Blackmoore, Milsike Management Team
Diversity Champion
Winner: Daniel White
Finalists: Laura Davies, Rosie Watson
Congratulations to all the nominees, finalists, and winners!